be regarded as Christian, or as worthy of the Christian name. Do we not, by the practice of rebaptism—a practice authorized and upheld by the General Convention—say all this as plainly as if we said it in words? Do we not by our act say to the candidate, You are now for the first time introduced among Christians in both worlds—introduced into the Church of Christ? For nothing is more plainly taught by Swedenborg than that baptism is the initiatory rite—the first gate of entrance to the church; and an initiatory rite is, from its very nature, one that is not to be repeated.
Now, is the attitude in which such solemn proclamation places the organized New Church a graceful or becoming one? Is it one of that "kindly, fraternal recognition of other Christians" which the Memorialists a year ago prayed for? Is it one calculated to win the respect and affection of those outside, or to promote the growth of humility and other kindred graces among those inside, of the Convention? Or—a more important question still—is it the true and proper attitude, or one justiied by the spirit and teachings of the New Jerusalem?—for the Convention is bound to act according to "the heavenly doctrines" which it professes to believe. Let us see.
There are several great religions in the world each of which has its peculiar outward sign whereby its believers are distinguished from those
